Question
My nails have become weak and flaky. I have recently started swimming and was wondering if it’s related to chlorine or other chemicals in the pool? Is there any way I can protect my nails so they will once again grow long and strong?
Jacci, via email.
Answer
Nails are normally highly flexible and will usually bend before reaching breaking point. Cherie Pollard, education manager for Creative Nail Design, explains how the nail can change and its flexibility reduced, under certain conditions.
“In repeated or long-term exposure to harsh cleaners, solvents or even chlorine in the pool, nails will become brittle and less flexible,” she says. “Excessive amounts of water can also be harmful to brittle nails. Water swells the nail plate, causing tiny cracks to enlarge. Brittle nails are a direct result of the nail plate’s moisture/oil balance being altered.
Daily application of products such as Creative Nail Design SolarOil, 7ml, $14, or SolarBalm, $23, gives back to the nail plate what it is missing. It is a quick and easy way for the nail to regain flexibility.” Wearing a nail polish, base coat and/ or nail strengthener is another great way to maintain the nail plate’s moisture. Also, you should always apply a base coat under any nail polish to prevent any nail discolouration.
The AWW Beauty Team
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